The range of scents you can encounter in different breeds of cannabis is almost unbelievable. If you’ve ever tasted pine, lavender, or citrus in your buds or CBD oil, the main culprits are terpenes. They are organic hydrocarbon compounds found in full-spectrum CBD, along with many other elements.
If you are fan of citrus flavors in your CBD products, that’s because of limonene. As explained on https://cheefbotanicals.com/limonene-terpene/, this terpene is the second most common in cannabis plants (right after myrcene). Besides its fantastic, slightly refreshing aroma, this compound also has a stunning array of medical properties that science just started to reveal.
As its name suggests, limonene is named after what it is most represented in, lemon. It is found naturally in many other plants, including some types of cannabis. This compound is also widely used in industry and pharmacy. You can find it in almost everything that has a citrus aroma, from ice cream to cosmetics.
The Role of Limonene Terpene
What are the benefits of limonene? There are many. It was studied for its possible anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, anticancer, and blood-clotting properties. Researchers have also found that a combination of limonene and other organic compounds found in cannabis compounds may help protect human memory.
In another study, this terpene was shown to prevent leukemia in lab mice. It has also proven in clinical trials to provide protection against stroke and convulsions and reduce symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and certain types of cancer.
The role of limonene in full-spectrum CBD products is to support the active ingredients. All these work in synergy, which is known as an entourage effect. It means that the impact of every compound is enhanced. The type of limonene used in CBD has been determined not to have any dangerous effects on health.
It’s best to consult with a physician and nutritionist before using CBD products with this terpene due to the varying levels of toxicity that each person may have. Because no CBD product is still approved as an official drug, always ask for a professional opinion on the full implications of this substance.
Fighting Anxiety
CBD oil has already gained popularity as a natural antidepressant. For some time now, hemp-based products have been used to treat mental issues such as depression, anxiety, panic attacks, etc. Check this link for more information on CBD oil for anxiety.
And while cannabidiol picked up all the glory, it’s time to pay some tribute to the terpenes. Limonene has already been shown to improve mood. When ingested, this terpene soothingly acts on the nervous system. They release the chemicals in the brain that prevent the formation of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and noradrenaline. By controlling their excretion, the number of neurological symptoms such as anxiety and panic, can be lessened or eliminated.
Acts as Analgesic
A few clinical studies so far showed that limonene has an analgesic effect. For years, this terpene has been used in essential oils as a part of the aromatherapy. But when the CBD stepped onto the stage, limonene stands shyly beside this compound. It’s like a little helper whom the hero can’t go without.
Limonene in CBD has recently been proven to have many benefits for those with liver and kidney diseases. A mild scent of citruses contributes a lot to the overall effectiveness of this compound. This pleasant aroma improves mood and helps the brain cope with pain and discomfort.
Antioxidant Properties
The benefits of limonene in CBD are mostly due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Combined with this cannabidiol, it makes a potent combination that can fight many health conditions. Thanks to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, limonene can cope with inflammation and ulcers on the colon’s mucous.
In topicals, limonene can be used to treat and prevent different skin issues, but only as an adjunct to conventional therapy. This compound found in hemp-based cosmetics prevents wrinkle formation on the face, which adds to the anti-aging properties of CBD.
Also, this terpene has significant effects when applied directly to skin prone to acne and redness. It has a consistency very similar to oil and, as such, can be easily massaged into the surface without leaving any oily or greasy after-effects.
How to Take Terpenes
There are several reasons to incorporate both limonene and other terpenes into your dietary routine. Not only are the therapeutic properties of these compounds are good for your health, but they are also a natural source of antioxidants. That way, along with potent CBD, they can fight against free radicals in your body.
Inhalation of limonene (as part of full-spectrum CBD oil or vape juice) boosts serotonin and dopamine levels in parts of the brain. Lack of these is in direct relation to anxiety, depression, and OCD. For quick action, in case of pain or panic attacks, the recommendation is oral use of CBD and limonene altogether. In the case of pain, the direct application of this terpene to the painful area is also recommended.
It is safe to say that the presence of limonene in cannabis contributes to the many positive properties of this plant. Further research into the health effects of this terpene is a must. Once science reveals the secret of its action, it will be possible to pinpoint the doses for treating specific diseases. For now, this aromatic compound is only a part of CBD goods that boost their effectiveness.
